Special thanks to Markus Weidemann for providing this lens for testing purposes!

Introduction

Sigma has a long tradition in the large aperture tele zoom lens arena. The series
started with the AF 70-210mm f/2.8 back in the late 80s and they've recently released
the 4th generation - the Sigma AF 70-200mm f/2.8 EX DG HSM APO macro. This latest
incarnation features an improved close focus range down to a max. object magnification
of 1:3.5 (1m @ 200mm). In absolute terms this may not be impressive but it is unique
within this class. The lens is part of Sigma's professional grade EX ("Excellence")
series and Sigma is also bold enough to go a comparatively high pricing - at
around 850€/US$ it is only marginally cheaper than the comparable genuine
manufacturer offers by Canon and Nikon. It is a full format lens and when used
on an APS-C DSLR its field-of-view is equivalent to a classic 105-300mm lens.

The build quality of the lens is very impressive - the outer shell is made of a
high quality combination of metal and plastic parts with the typical Sigma EX
finish. The broad rubberized zoom and focus control rings operate exceptionally
smooth and even slightly damped. The overall length of the lens does not change
and the filter thread does not rotate. A detachable tripod-collar is also part
of the package. The lens is also compatible to the Sigma AF 1.4x and 2x tele
converters.

The Sigma features an HSM ("Hypersonic Motor") AF drive which is both very fast
as well as near-silent. Full-time manual focus override is available in Single
Shot AF mode. The AF accuracy of the tested sample was fine.